I was touring once, and the place we stayed at didn't serve early enough. So we rode 2 or 3 hours and saw a Denny's. I was starving. Went in, ordered a Grand Slam, and Man, oh, Man did I suffer for that bit of stupidity when I got back on the bike.

Not Hardee's but about as bad. On the way to a metric century early this past spring I was running late and hungry. I stopped by Mickey Ds and got a sausage biscuit with egg and hash browns. I rode such a good ride that I've had the same pre-ride breakfast all summer and I've had some of my best rides and ride times ever. My cholesterol has dropped this summer too! Screw healthy food, I'm doing what works for me.

Like that's any different than downing a Grand Slam or a breakfast at any diner in the U.S.A.

Thing is, though, diners are "Americana" and Hardee's is just being honest. We tend to value kitchy diners more than a fast food place that isn't afraid to just say, "Hey, our food is fattening. If you wants you some, come 'n git it!"

I set out with a goal of 40 miles - much further than I'd ever ridden before. I did many things wrong that day. I put on my jeans and Vans, and on the way over, decided I was a little hungry. I picked up the Taco Bell 1/2 Pound Beef and Potato burrito. 6 miles later in the 90F+ heat, I'm in pain, and turning slightly green. 8.5 miles later, I'm back in my car, with the a/c on full blast, and my eyes closed, concentrating on retaining my lunch.